updated 10:30 pm EST, Thu December 29, 2011

iPad 3 IGZO LCD plans reiterated in tip

The Sharp IGZO displays Apple is rumored to be using for the iPad 3 might still be in short supply. Rumors late Thursday from Digitimes had Taiwan supplier sources saying they could technically make the advanced displays, but that the useful production yields were still a "major concern." The claims echoed views that Sharp was shifting TV production to tablets to help meet targets.

Short for indium gallium zinc oxide, IGZO is believed to be key to Apple reaching "full HD level," the purported sources said, likely a reference to the widely rumored 2048x1536 resolution. It may let Apple get to the higher resolution without significant extra backlighting or consuming more battery power. Samsung is rumored to be countering IGZO with its own 2560x1600 display, but it may require a larger 11.6-inch screen and may not ship for months.

Shortages may be only relative for Apple. Earlier rumors had 9.8 million iPad 3s shipping for March or April, which if met could be enough to meet initial demand.